Overview
Atomic physics plays a key role in astrophysics as astronomers' only information about a particular object comes through the light that it emits, and this light arises through atomic transitions. The two major topics tackled by our group are thus:
- Performing atomic physics calculations that are needed to astronomers. Our group has played a key role in developing and maintaining CHIANTI, a Database for Astrophysical Emission Line Spectroscopy.
- Using atomic data to interpret astronomical observations and measure the plasma state using spectroscopic diagnostics.
- Recent work includes the development of improved atomic data, emission models, and diagnostics for plasma conditions in the solar and atmosphere
We are mostly interested to study the Sun, in particular the solar corona. We are members of the vibrant UK Solar Physics community (UKSP)
Members of the group
Members of the group, including Giulio Del Zanna, Roger Dufresne, Eva Deliporanidou, Nicolas Mori, Johannes Sadler and Helen Mason, work on atomic calculations, solar and stellar spectroscopy, and irradiance modelling, supporting current and future space missions (e.g. SIRIUS).